Cubital tunnel release is an arthroscopic surgical procedure aimed at treating cubital tunnel syndrome. Also known as arthroscopic neurolysis of the ulnar nerve, this procedure involves addressing an ulnar nerve impingement or compression. The fundamental goal of a cubital tunnel release procedure is to reduce pressure on the ulnar nerve by creating space and increasing blood supply to the nerve to catalyse healing.   

The goal of cubital tunnel release surgery is to reduce the pressure on the ulnar nerve by providing more space for the nerve to move freely. The surgery also increases blood flow to the nerve which promotes healing and aids in recovery.  

It is common for your orthopaedic surgeon to prescribe conservative measures for 3-6 months. If these measures are ineffective, surgery would subsequently be suggested as a treatment solution. One would require a cubital tunnel release procedure if their condition is classified anywhere from mild to severe. 

Symptoms include:

• Muscle atrophy resulting in weakness in the arm and grip 
• Reduced motor capabilities and sensory 
• Increased numbness and tingling 

During the surgery, incisions are made between the medial epicondyle and olecranon.  An arthroscope is then inserted, allowing your surgeon to assess the condition of your elbow through the camera. This phase of the procedure is also known as arthroscopic diagnosis.  During the diagnostic phase, your orthopaedic surgeon will determine what is the source of impingement and plan out decompression accordingly. 

Next, ligaments and bony bumps which are found compressing the ulnar nerve are cut or removed in the cubital tunnel. This will create space for the mobilisation of the ulnar nerve. Once sufficient space is made, the surgical site is irrigated to prevent infections. Finally, incisions are closed either by suture or staples. 

• Minimally invasive
• Quicker discharge 
• Minimal scarring 
• Short recovery period 

Cubital tunnel release can be used to treat the following conditions:

• Arthritis: arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis makes one prone to cubital tunnel syndrome, a surgical release will improve conditions. 
• Osteochondromas: the most common bone growth condition that occurs when the cartilage or bone near the growth plate overgrows.
• Fractures: fractures can cause bits of bones or cartilage to break away and compress the ulnar nerve. 
• Dislocation: elbow dislocations typically results in movement of the elbow structures which could subsequently lead to compression. 
• Diabetes: diabetes mellitus causes glucose cell metabolism which could narrow the cubital tunnel. 
• Obesity: obesity does not directly cause cubital tunnel syndrome, but affiliating diabetic, inflammatory, and hypertension conditions will lead to impingement of the ulnar nerve.  

Cubital tunnel release has a success rate ranging from 80-90%, however, these statistics vary according to the method employed. Regardless, upon surgery, one can expect expedited recovery. In younger patients and athletes, recovery as short as 3 weeks have been observed with a return to sports or daily activities within a month. This is provided one observes aggressive rehabilitation through physiotherapy. In more severe cases, recovery could take up to 6 months. This is especially the case if one has underlying health conditions. 

Typically one can observe improved arm function and recovery of motor and sensory abilities. Pain significantly subsides followed by alleviation of numbness. With cubital tunnel release, you reduce the risk of permanent nerve damage. 

Discipline and dedication towards physiotherapy would help in speeding up recovery. Diets and post-surgical habits could also impact your healing rate. With positive post-surgical care and collaborative work with your orthopaedist, a positive outcome can be anticipated. 

Your orthopaedist can give you a better idea of what to expect based on your individual needs and circumstances. 

A single session suffices for cubital tunnel release. However, there are rare cases where repeated surgeries are required. This is especially true if faultiness in surgical methods from previous elbow injuries is evident. Additionally, improper lifestyle practices could also continue worsening the condition. 

It is important that one practises strict post-surgical regimens to avoid recurring surgery. 

Your orthopaedist will be able to provide you with a bespoke treatment plan, tailored to your needs and requirements.